Constance N. “Connie” Johnson Keynote Speaker from Oklahoma City, OK

* Former member of the Oklahoma Senate, representing District 48 (2005 – 2014) * Chair, Oklahoma Senate Democrats Outreach Committee * Immediate Past Officer, National Black Caucus Of State Legislators * Chair, Oklahoma State Democratic Party Affirmative Action Committee. * Immediate Past Chair, Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus Senator Connie Johnson, a 33year veteran of the legislative process, served for 24 years as Senate health policy staff, and has served eight years as a Senator for Oklahoma City's predominantly African American “Eastside.” She focuses on issues that disproportionately affect the economic and social wellbeing of the state's poor, minorities, women and children, from a health and mental health, and human services focus. She has enacted legislation and sponsored forums and programs that promote health education and awareness about prevention and management of diabetes, stroke, cancer, and tobacco in communities. An outspoken advocate for eliminating health disparities and domestic violence, her efforts to protect women's reproductive health rights in Oklahoma were featured in a segment of Jon Stuart's Daily Show entitled “Bro. Choice,” which led to the defeat of the “Personhood” Bill (SB1433) in 2012. Sen. Johnson believes in citizen involvement in government, and frequently speaks to and trains groups in the legislative process.She concurrently focuses on programs and activities that promote respect, valuing, and appreciation of diversity